Solar research includes a wide range of topics, and high performances are required by scientific programs.
THEMIS is designed to run several complementary exchangeable observing modes. It is unique in this respect.
- The slit-spectroscopy (MTR) observes many lines in 1D field-of-view with high spectral resolution,
- The narrow-band filter (IPM) provides 2D-fields in a number of wavelengths successively, with high spatial resolution,
- The MSDP records simultaneously a number of wavelengths in 2D fields, with high temporal and spatial resolution.
We do not approach here the general description of the telescope, designed by Jean Rayrole, neither the MTR and IPM modes. We concentrate on the MSDP mode and its capabilities for imaging spectro-polarimetry.
Additional information can be found at http://www.themis.iac.es.
Copyright ESO 2001